Govt to hire 574 new firemen

NATIONAL Security Minister Martin Joseph disclosed on Thursday that Cabinet agreed to the expenditure of $29.9 million to meet the requirements of 574 new positions in the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Services. Joseph made this known during his address at the “passing out” parade for 49 new firemen at the Wrightson Road headquarters of the TT Fire Service. Joseph said the Fire Service would get an additional three fire station officers, 48 fire sub officers and 523 firefighters.

He added that Government was also pursuing construction of fire stations at Sangre Grande, San Fernando, Couva, Mayaro, Arouca, Rio Claro and Plymouth/Black Rock (Tobago). The completed cost of these major projects is estimated at $136.5 million. A sum of $48.3 million is also earmarked to acquire equipment and vehicles for the service, including portable and trailer pumps, ten tankers and tenders, four aerial platforms, 52 sets of breathing apparatus and 50 chemical suits. A hazardous material incident vehicle will also be acquired.

In addressing the graduates, Joseph pointed out that the government and people of Trinidad and Tobago expect that the Fire Services would continue to play a pivotal role in protecting the lives and property of citizens who fall victims to natural and unnatural disasters. The most improved trainee award was presented to Suraj Balkaran, while John David received the award for placing first in the final exam. Chief Fire Officer Lennox Alfred told the 49 new firemen that they were entering the services when facilities and working conditions had been vastly improved. He urged them to make the best use of the opportunities they would get to improve themselves as individuals and serve the people of Trinidad and Tobago.